Dividend Restrictions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Disclosure of Restrictions on Dividends, Loans and Advances Disclosure [Abstract]

Dividend Restrictions

DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS

The Virginia Commission may prohibit any public service company, including Virginia Power, from declaring or paying a dividend to an affiliate if found to be detrimental to the public interest. At December 31, 2012, the Virginia Commission had not restricted the payment of dividends by Virginia Power.

Certain agreements associated with Dominion's and Virginia Power's credit facilities contain restrictions on the ratio of debt to total capitalization. These limitations did not restrict Dominion's or Virginia Power's ability to pay dividends or receive dividends from their subsidiaries at December 31, 2012.

See Note 17 for a description of potential restrictions on dividend payments by Dominion in connection with the deferral of interest payments on junior subordinated notes.